Featured Artist Spotlight: CatherinetteRings

My Thirteenth and final featured artist is Daniel of CatherinetteRings. I met Daniel on Entrecard where he was nice enough to help me figure out how some things there worked. Since then I have purchased 2 of his rings and they are truly works of art! Daniel's shop features a wide range of very unique Jewelry...






Start off by telling us about yourself...

My name is Daniel Proulx from Montréal. I make Wire-wrapped Steampunk Jewelry with brass, copper and gemstones




When did you start your art/craft and how
did you get into it?

In April of 2008 I started to make rings just for fun after Catherine (My better half) learned how to make simple wire rings during a 2 hour lesson. I just watched how she made it and tried. Since then I spent several hours every day perfecting and developing my own technique to create an original design. I quickly started to make very retro-futurist model of rings. At that time I decided embarked into this adventure, quit my job and try to live on my jewelry full-time.

One day a friend told me what I was doing was Steampunk. I research the subject and fell in love with this culture. I always liked Steampunk but I didn't know there was a name for it. Recently I had the chance to have my steampunk jewelry featured in the fashion Magazine Clindoeil and an article about my art in the newspaper Le Voir.


Where do you get your inspiration for your creations?

I always was very interested in fantasy imaginary world such as Dungeon & Dragon, Lord of the Rings and Science fiction. I’m also inspired by the mix of mechanical, organic shapes and contrast between ancient and futuristic designs.


Do you work at your art/craft full time or do you
have another job?

I’m doing this full-time and I don’t plan to work on anything else beside my craft.I and Catherine go to Local Art shows and we also give lessons from time to time.



If you could start over with your business is there anything you would do differently?

So far it’s only been 1 year and everything is going well, so I wouldn’t change anything.



Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Why?

The 12 of April 2008 I started the business one year ago and here I am where I never expected to be. In 10 year I will have learned many new jewelry making techniques, taken several course and I will have a large workshop where I will not only make jewelry but also large sculptures. For me it is just the beginning of the adventure.



Who do you admire (artist or otherwise)? Why?

There’s a company based in New Zealand that really impressed me and they are a source of inspiration by their immense creativity but also by their dedication to their art. The most amazing achievement is the Lords of the rings where they made all the miniatures, big-atures, props, swords and digital special effects. http://www.wetanz.com/ .


What tips would you have for someone that is
just starting out?

When I first quit my job and started to make jewelry full time many people thought it was crazy or that I was making the wrong choice (I don’t blame them because it’s out of the norm). The best advice I ever been given by my mother when I was little is to always follow your dreams no matter what other people says. If You believe in yourself you can achieve anything.



Be sure to visit his Blog and Etsy shop...

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